Why the British GP is vital to Hamilton's title bid

If Lewis Hamilton wins this year's British Grand Prix he will eclipse both Jim Clark and Nigel Mansell as the most successful British driver to win on home soil. Even if he fails, the fast sweeps and rain of Silverstone will forever be associated with some of Hamilton's most brilliant performances. The man gunning for his sixth home win this month tells JAMES ROBERTS what makes the British Grand Prix so special

The British summer can go one of two ways. Roasting heat, clear blue skies and scorched grass. Or thick, leaden clouds, a cool breeze with a persistent threat of rain.

On the banks of Silverstone's daunting corners, the hardy perennials make their July pilgrimage come rain or shine. Some years they are pink and shirtless; other times, sodden - battling the elements underneath a plastic poncho.